Biobanking for Biomarkers In Respiratory Disease, Allergic Diseases and/or Mast Cell Disorders
Researchers are creating a special collection, called a 'biobank', of samples (like blood or tissue) and health information from people who have or are thought to have allergic diseases, asthma, or mast cell conditions. The goal is to gather a lot of information in one place to help scientists learn more about these conditions. By studying these samples, they hope to discover new ways to understand, diagnose, and treat these illnesses. All personal details will be kept private, using a special code instead of names. This research could lead to important breakthroughs for people living with these conditions.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is setting up a special collection, called a 'biobank', for people living with or suspected of having allergies, asthma, or conditions related to mast cells. Think of it like a library of biological samples and health information. Researchers want to gather samples like blood or tissue, along with important details about your health and medical history.
The main aim of this biobank is to help scientists in the future. By having a large collection of samples and information, researchers can look for patterns and discover new 'biomarkers'. These biomarkers are like clues in our bodies that can help doctors diagnose conditions earlier, predict how a condition might progress, or even show if a treatment is likely to work. This could lead to a better understanding of these conditions over time.
All the samples and information collected will be made anonymous, meaning your name won't be attached to them. Instead, a special code will be used to protect your privacy. This biobank will be used by researchers at Toulouse University Hospital, but also potentially by other expert research teams both in the UK and internationally. Any sharing of samples or data will always follow strict privacy rules, like GDPR, to ensure your information is handled safely and responsibly.
Key takeaways
- It's a collection (biobank) of samples and health data.
- Aims to improve understanding of allergies, asthma, and mast cell conditions.
- Your contribution helps future research for new diagnoses and treatments.
- Your personal information will be made anonymous to protect your privacy.
- You won't receive new treatments, and risks are generally low.
- You can stop participating at any time.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, you need to be an adult between 18 and 100 years old. You must also be signed up with a social security scheme, like the NHS in the UK, and be able to understand what the study involves and agree to take part in writing.
You might be eligible if you have allergies (confirmed by a skin prick test or blood test) or if your doctor suspects you have an allergy and is planning these tests. People with asthma of any severity, or those with specific mast cell conditions like mastocytosis, mast cell activation syndrome, or familial hyper-alpha tryptasemia, might also be able to join.
However, some people cannot participate. This includes anyone under legal guardianship. Also, pregnant or breastfeeding women cannot take part in this study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 18 and 100 years old?
- Do you have allergies, asthma, or a mast cell condition (or suspect you do)?
- Are you able to understand the study information and agree to take part in writing?
- Are you not pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Are you not under any legal guardianship?
What does participation involve?
This study is about collecting samples and information, rather than trying a new medication. If you decide to take part, you would provide biological samples (like blood) and share some details about your health and medical history. This would likely involve one or more visits to the hospital or clinic at the start of your involvement.
You won't be given any new treatments or medicines as part of this study. The information and samples you provide will be stored in the biobank for future research. The specific number of visits and exact tests will be explained to you by the study team, but it will primarily be focused on the initial collection of samples and data. You would not expect ongoing active participation once your samples are collected.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Laurent GUILLEMINAULTVerified postcodeToulouse, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is a 'biobank'?
A biobank is like a safe library that stores biological samples (like blood or tissue) and health information from people, to be used for future medical research.
Will my personal details be kept private?
Yes, your personal details will be kept private and your samples and data will be given a special code. Your name won't be attached to the information used for research.
Will I get any new treatment as part of this study?
No, this study is about collecting samples and information for research, not about providing new treatments.
What kind of samples will be collected?
The study aims to collect biological samples, which often include blood, but the exact samples will be fully explained if you are invited to join.
Can I leave the study at any time?
Yes, you are free to withdraw from the study at any point, and your regular medical care will not be affected.
How to find out more
Laurent GUILLEMINAULT, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.